Beginning orthodontic treatment is a big step that can be exciting but also nerve wracking. If you’re set to acquire Invisalign near you, there are a few things you should know before your journey officially begins.
Our Wainwright dentist is available for consultations, and we encourage you to book a one-on-one session if you have questions or concerns about Invisalign. You’ll be guided through the process from top to bottom, including aftercare instructions so you avoid unnecessary issues like dry socket. We will also inform you on the dos and don’ts of wearing your aligners, which is broken down in further detail below:
The Dos:
- Wear Your Aligners – Consistency is essential. Wear your aligners every day, only removing them when you eat, drink, and clean your teeth. Doing so guarantees that you get the results you want.
- Keep Your Aligners Clean – If you don’t clean your aligners well, bacteria can build up. Rinse them every time you remove them and brush them gently with a soft toothbrush so you don’t scratch the material.
- Brush and Floss After Meals – Before popping your aligners back in after a meal, make sure to thoroughly brush and floss. This prevents food particles from getting trapped between your teeth and aligners, reducing the risk of cavities and bad breath.
- Store Your Aligners Properly – Your aligners should be kept in a case while not in use. There’s a greater possibility of them getting lost or broken if you leave them in the open or wrap them in a napkin.
- Attend Regular Check-Ups – Keep those dental appointments! Your dentist needs to monitor your progress and make any necessary adjustments to ensure your treatment stays on track.
- Change Your Aligners as Instructed – Your treatment plan will involve switching to a new set of aligners every one to two weeks. Following your dentist’s predetermined treatment plan ensures that your progress is continual and your smile is properly aligned.
- Stay Hydrated – Drinking water is perfectly fine while wearing your trays. In fact, it’s encouraged! Just remember to remove your aligners before indulging in any other beverages to prevent staining.
Why Does the 22-Hour Rule Matter?
The 22-hour rule refers to the duration of time you should be wearing your aligners every single day. Doing so promotes consistent tooth movement, leading to quicker and more successful results.
The Don’ts:
- Don’t Wear Your Aligners While Playing Sports – Protect your aligners and your smile by removing them before engaging in any contact sports. A stray ball or elbow could damage them or injure your mouth.
- Don’t Use Hot Water to Clean Your Aligners – Use lukewarm water and mild soap. Hot water can warp the form of your aligners, reducing their effectiveness and increasing discomfort.
- Don’t Neglect Your Oral Hygiene – Even with aligners, keeping your smile healthy is crucial. Don’t miss out on brushing and flossing—this is your chance to level up your dental care routine. Enjoy a vibrant, plaque-free smile by prioritizing your oral hygiene.
- Do Not Chew Gum with Your Aligners – Chewing gum when wearing aligners is not recommended at all. It gets stuck in the plastic; that’s something you would really want to avoid.
- Avoid wearing your aligners – Skipping some days or even hours will prolong the overall treatment time and may lead to poor final results.
- Do not try to adjust them yourself – The first sign you notice that your aligners don’t feel right: NEVER try to adjust them yourself. Consult your Wainwright dentist for possible adjustments or have issues with your aligners solved. This ensures that you stay on schedule and do not cause any harm to your aligners or teeth.
Shape Your Perfect Smile Book Your Visit Today
At Wainwright Family Dental, your journey to a perfect smile is our priority. With expert advice from our dentist in Wainwright, achieving your dream smile is Let’s craft a smile you’ll fall in love with each day; call or send us a message to arrange an appointment today.